SOURCE: The Examiner
TASMANIA’S wild areas have been given a significant funding boost from the federal government.
Environment Minister Greg Hunt announced on Wednesday that the Commonwealth would give Tasmania $10.2 million for the protection and conservation of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
The funding includes a one-off payment of $3.2 million next financial year to address priority issues such as road safety and biosecurity concerns including managing the spread of invasive species, pests and pathogens.
The funding also provides $575,000 to undertake further study and consultation with the Tasmanian Aboriginal community.
State Environment Minister Matthew Groom said the TWWHA had significant value in terms of its contribution to the social and economic benefits of the state.
‘‘It has important recreational, health, educational and aesthetic values, as well as providing highly valuable ecosystem services, and is a significant contributor to the Tasmanian economy, particularly in facilitating regional tourism,’’ Mr Groom said.
The funding is in addition to $3.4 million that the federal government provides annually for management of the area, and in addition to $13.6 million committed by the state government over the course of the forward estimates.
